How can I determine the underlying reason for my upper left abdomen swelling?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Swelling in the upper left abdomen is often caused by enlarged lymph nodes, which are typically detected through imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Common underlying causes include infections, inflammatory conditions, immune system disorders, or, less commonly, cancers such as lymphoma. Other possible causes of upper left abdominal swelling include an enlarged spleen, digestive issues, or abdominal masses. Because the causes vary widely in severity, a proper medical evaluation is essential to identify the exact reason and determine appropriate treatment.

If you're experiencing swelling in your upper left abdomen, understanding potential causes early can help you make informed decisions about your health. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights based on your specific symptoms and clearer guidance on your next steps—before your doctor's visit.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

What brings you in today?

Can I treat this myself Do I need to see a doctor Where should I go for care I'm concerned about a symptom Concerned about a possible condition My symptoms are getting worse Seeking a second opinion

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Swelling in the upper left abdomen can sometimes be related to lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of the body's immune system. They can become enlarged due to various reasons.

Normal Size of Lymph Nodes: It's important to understand what is considered a normal size for lymph nodes in the upper abdomen. This can help in determining if the lymph nodes are indeed enlarged.
Causes of Enlarged Lymph Nodes: There are different reasons why lymph nodes might appear larger on imaging tests. These reasons include infections, inflammation, or other medical conditions.
Periportal Lymphadenopathy: Sometimes, lymph nodes near the liver (periportal) can be enlarged without a clear reason. This condition requires further evaluation to understand the underlying cause.

If you notice swelling in your upper left abdomen, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine if you should seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can use imaging tests and other assessments to determine the underlying cause and suggest appropriate actions.

(References)

Dorfman RE, Alpern MB, Gross BH, & Sandler MA. (1991). Upper abdominal lymph nodes: criteria for normal size .... Radiology, 2068292.
Lucey BC, Stuhlfaut JW, & Soto JA. (2005). Mesenteric lymph nodes seen at imaging: causes and .... Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc, 15798054.
Krishna NB, Gardner L, Collins BT, & Agarwal B. (2006). Periportal lymphadenopathy in patients without identifiable .... Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association, 17059897.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.